Ellie Kirke

Does habitat complexity drive differences in both morphology and performance in the Northern quoll?

Honours student

ellie.kirke@uq.net.au

BSc - Zoology and Ecology (2015-2017), University of Queensland

BSc (Honours) - Current

Research Interests

From a young age, I’ve always been interested in the world around me and the beautiful flora and fauna it has to offer. I grew up watching David Attenborough, collecting wildlife magazines and being in constant fascination of animals which provoked my original plan to study veterinary science. During my first year at UQ, I quickly realised my passion for animal physiology and behaviour so instead chose to complete my Bachelor of Science majoring in Zoology and Ecology.

Throughout my degree I was fortunate to participate in many field ecology trips, including to Fraser Island and Idalia National Park in central Queensland, which ignited my passion for field research. I was also extremely lucky to be able to volunteer in South Africa where I worked on a conservation farm, relocating white lions from hunting facilities to protected areas. The experience was incredibly unique, and it opened my eyes to the reality of animal welfare and conservation in a very different part of the world. All of these experiences have developed my deep love for both travel and animals. I completed my degree in 2017 and was keen to continue my studies which lead me to the Wilson Performance Lab. My honours project will be focussed on the performance of Northern Quolls in different environments on Groote Eylandt.

Ellie at Idalia National Park - Queensland

Fraser Island sand blow - Queensland

Personal Interests

Above all else, I love being outdoors. My love of travel, hiking and nature has inevitably lead me to wildlife photography which has rapidly become a huge passion of mine.

I love travelling to places with stark cultural differences from Australia like Japan, Europe and Africa. It has always been a dream of mine (and many others, no doubt) to be able to travel with my job, so I feel extremely fortunate to be able to travel to Groote Eylandt this year. Aside from travelling, I also love playing musical instruments and often use it as an escape in stressful times.

My long-term plan is basically to not have a long-term plan; instead to seize opportunities as they arise and continue to study the things I feel most passionate about. I am extremely excited to study quoll performance on Groote Eylandt for my honours project this year and feel very fortunate to be a part of the Wilson Performance Lab. Below are some of my favourite photography moments......